Founder + ChairChris Darling
London, UK
Chris set up Darling Associates Architects in 2003, drawing on his wide-ranging experience and quickly established the company as a leading design-led practice. As Chair and Founder, he continues to provide vision and leadership across all projects, upholding the highest standards in both design quality output and client satisfaction.
After studying Architecture at the University of Edinburgh, he was awarded a Carnegie Scholarship for design and graduated with Honours. Chris joined Frederick Gibberd where he was appointed Principal Associate. One of his most significant achievements at that time was the 30,000 sqm Crowngate retail centre in Worcester, a project that included extensive urban enhancements.
Following ten years at Gibberd, he joined Terry Farrell and Partners where he was responsible for the practice’s Crossrail team before joining Hamilton Associates in 1994. At Hamilton’s he worked on a mixture of workplace and major residential projects, and was appointed an Equity Director in 1997. He was responsible for 40 Berkeley Square, Cambridge Business Park offices schemes together with major residential projects in London at Richmond Bridge, Artillery Mansions and Trevor Square.
Chris’ interest lies with developing an architectural language around the principles of proportion, harmony and the careful selection and detailing of materials. Whilst his expertise lies in the areas of residential, masterplanning and office design, he pushes the practice forward into new and constantly evolving territory, always striving to ensure the approach remains fresh and the highest standards are achieved.
In recent years, Chris has transformed Darling Associates into a leading UK architectural practice, now approaching 25 years, and working in the UK and internationally for eminent clients.
Outside the office, he is an enthusiastic yachtsman and a keen member of Itchenor Sailing Club.